Jason Isaacs, famed for his role as Lucius Malfoy in the original Harry Potter films, has defended Paapa Essiedu amid backlash over the actor’s casting as Severus Snape.
Essiedu was cast as Snape for HBO’s forthcoming Harry Potter series.
‘HARRY POTTER’ SERIES NEW SNAPE
Speaking at FanExpo Denver, Isaacs condemned the negative online reactions as “racist” and “rude.” He urged fans to reconsider their stance once they see Essiedu’s performance.
Paapa Essiedu, a distinguished British actor, earned acclaim for his Emmy-nominated role in I May Destroy You and appeared in Black Mirror and The Lazarus Project.
He is the first Black actor to take on the iconic role of Snape, originally portrayed by the late Alan Rickman.
Isaacs praised him as “one of the best actors I’ve ever seen in my life.” He expressed confidence that detractors “will be swallowing their digital tongues” after witnessing his work on screen.
THE NEW ‘HARRY POTTER’ SERIES
The upcoming HBO series aims to adapt J.K. Rowling’s seven Harry Potter novels across multiple seasons.
The reboot features a fresh ensemble cast. This includes John Lithgow as Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Hagrid.
Newcomers Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout will portray Harry, Hermione, and Ron respectively. Johnny Flynn takes on the role of Lucius Malfoy, Isaacs’s former character, according to Deadline.
J.K. ROWLING ON CASTING DECISIONS
Isaacs’s defence is particularly significant considering the controversy surrounding Rowling herself. The author has faced criticism for her views on transgender issues.
Despite this, Rowling stated she would not interfere with casting decisions, emphasising respect for actors’ livelihoods regardless of differing beliefs.
Isaacs’s stance challenges fans to move beyond outdated notions of character ‘authenticity’ tied to race, promoting a broader appreciation of talent and storytelling.
THE NEW CAST ON ‘HARRY POTTER’
Isaacs remarked:
“Paapa Essiedu is one of the best actors I’ve ever seen in my life. I’ve seen some people online who are being rude about him. What they’re being is racist.”
He added:
“All the cast of the new Harry Potter TV series are amazing. They will be swallowing their tongues, hopefully, you know, their digital tongues, when they see what Paapa does on screen.”
PRODUCTION BUDGET
This casting choice not only diversifies the Harry Potter universe but also invites audiences to reimagine beloved characters through a contemporary lens.
The series is expected to be a major production, with Warner Bros reportedly investing around £1 billion (approximately R 25 billion).
This will be used to expand Leavesden Studios and create authentic sets, including a real Hogwarts school and Privet Drive.
As the global fanbase anticipates the series, Isaacs’s outspoken support offers a powerful reminder that artistry and inclusivity must triumph over prejudice.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT PAAPA ESSIEDU’S CASTING AS SNAPE IN THE NEW HARRY POTTER SERIES?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
